According to Adrian Newey, Max Verstappen`s future in Formula 1 will always be guided by his pursuit of the quickest car, amidst rumors that Aston Martin might try to sign the four-time Red Bull champion.
Newey, the acclaimed F1 designer, was seen at a Grand Prix for the first time as Aston Martin`s new managing technical partner in Monaco, nearly three months after leaving Red Bull.
During an interview with Martin Brundle, Newey addressed persistent paddock speculation suggesting Verstappen might eventually join him at Aston Martin, particularly as engine supplier Honda is also moving to the Silverstone team for the 2026 rule changes.
Newey described Verstappen as “obviously a formidable competitor” but also “a very simple beast,” adding that he meant the latter remark “in an entirely complimentary way.”
He explained that Verstappen “just wants a fast car where he can display his skills.”
Newey concluded, “Therefore, I suspect Max will always pursue whoever he believes can provide the fastest car.”
Newey Defends Lance Stroll
Verstappen`s current contract with Red Bull is set to run until the close of the 2028 season, though reports indicate it includes performance-related clauses that could permit an earlier departure under specific conditions.
For the 2026 season, Aston Martin has already secured contracts with their current drivers, Fernando Alonso and Lance Stroll.
When asked about his initial experience working with the two-time champion Alonso, aged 43, Newey remarked, “Fernando is, honestly, what a legend.”
He shared that “the two regrets of my recent career, going back not a very long time, have been that I didn`t have the chance to work with either Lewis [Hamilton] or Fernando.”
He added, “Now I have the opportunity to rectify one of those.”
Commenting on Stroll, the son of Aston Martin owner Lawrence Stroll, Newey stated, “I believe Lance receives undeserved criticism.”
He pointed out, “In fact, if you look at Lance`s performance compared to his teammates, including Checo [Perez], Sebastian [Vettel], and now Fernando, he is by no means slow.”
